I first experienced Disney World as an adult; and although I hate to confess that I wasn’t a fan of the parks in general, I loved Epcot. The feel of being in other countries and experiencing, even in a minuscule version, the sights and sounds and tastes of lands far away delighted the wanderlust part of my heart. In similar fashion, Plaza Mariachi Music City, a new addition to Nashville, is a beautifully designed celebration of Latin American culture under one large roof. Just a walk through the 85,000 square feet of architecturally detailed space will give a sense of being in a traditional Mexican marketplace; and there are plenty of foods and drinks, music and entertainment to fully round out the international experience!
Starting in the parking lot, the fountains and benches set within pristine landscaping provide a welcoming invitation before you even make it in the doors. Once inside, you’ll enter the spacious, main dining plaza with the live entertainment stage. From there you’ll want to explore the “calles” and discover the different street vendor shops ranging from Latin gifts and décor to mobile phones and law offices, an art gallery, boutiques, and even an arcade for the kids. But the main draw for me is the vast array of delicious ethnic foods, beverages and desserts they offer! There are quick lunch options including tacos, Mexican street corn, ceviche, Spanish tapas and pizzas, and sit-down options of an Argentinian steakhouse and Cuban dining. Or you can just grab a paleta, sorbet, or a warm sugar-covered churro for a quick sweet treat. My favorite mid-day pick-me-up is the Horchata Latte from Madera Café, a modern café serving gourmet coffees.
The MazFresco grocery store attached to the plaza has the quality and charm that give the feel of being in a mini Hispanic Whole Foods! They offer freshly baked pan dulces (sweet breads), and tres leches cakes, typical spices and products from Central and South America, a beautiful assortment of colorful fruits and vegetables, and Mexican beers. Their very reasonably-priced hot deli features carne asada, Barbacoa and other succulently prepared meats, beans, and rice all cooked on site, served with homemade tortillas and fresh salsas.
Whatever you choose to eat, you’ll have to sit a spell in the main plaza and enjoy the entertainment of the day—from very talented Latin singers to acrobat acts to Mariachi bands to salsa dancing (free lessons on Thursday nights!). You will experience the quality of performers we’ve all come to expect in Nashville, albeit with a Latin flare. 🙂
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